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Total Cholesterol (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This blood test measures the total amount of cholesterol in your serum, a fatty substance that plays a key role in heart health and cell function.

Quick summary

["Cholesterol levels help assess your risk for heart disease and other health conditions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61319-0
Short code
Cocoa IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Cocoa IgE/IgE total %
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your blood. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly, but having too much can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. This test checks the total amount of cholesterol in your blood, including both low-density lipoprotein (LDL, often called 'bad' cholesterol) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL, often called 'good' cholesterol).

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test to evaluate your overall heart health, monitor cholesterol levels if you have a history of high cholesterol, or check for risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes.

How Is the Test Done?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab to measure the total cholesterol concentration in your serum.

What Do Results Mean?

Results provide a single number representing your total cholesterol level. While reference ranges vary by lab, higher-than-normal levels may signal a need for lifestyle changes or medical intervention to manage cholesterol.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Cholesterol

Frequently asked questions

What causes high cholesterol levels?
High cholesterol can result from genetics, an unhealthy diet (high in saturated or trans fats), lack of physical activity, obesity, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism.
How can I lower my cholesterol naturally?
Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins; limit saturated and trans fats; exercise regularly; maintain a healthy weight; and avoid smoking.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health status, risk factors, and medical history. Typically, adults with no risk factors may get tested every 4–5 years; those with risk factors may need more frequent monitoring.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy